WINERY OVERVIEW

After working with regional winemaking stars such as Tom Dehlinger, Robert Stemmler, Davis Bynum and Joe Rochioli, Gary Farrell launched Gary Farrell Wines in 1982, producing 50 cases of Pinot Noir from the now famous Rochioli and Allen vineyards.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir currently represents about 50% of our production. For many years, we have been experimenting with vineyards throughout the cooler regions of Sonoma County and our efforts are now focused around a few select Russian River Valley properties, which include Rochioli, Allen, Starr Ridge, Cresta Ridge, Stiling and Toboni vineyards.

Cool breezes and nighttime fog from the Pacific Ocean provide significant cooling during the late spring and summer months, moderating temperatures and providing for a slow, even ripening of the fruit while preserving natural acidity. Wines from these regions are intensely flavored, wonderfully textured and are often admired for their impeccable balance and stylistic elegance.

Chardonnay & Zinfandel

Over the years, we have also enjoyed remarkable success with Chardonnay and Zinfandel. The primary vineyard sources for our Chardonnay include Rochioli, Allen, Starr Ridge, Cresta Ridge and Westside Farms. We are also very proud to receive Zinfandel grapes from some of Dry Creek & Russian River Valley’s most reputable growers, including Bradford Mountain and Collins vineyards.

Our Winery

Our winery is situated in the heart of the Russian River Valley, on a ridge top among native redwoods, oak and madrone trees. The setting is nothing short of magical. Spotless and well thought-out, the facility gives way to serious quality winemaking.

With its northeastern orientation, the "crush pad" houses custom belt systems for gently moving and hand-sorting grapes, European presses, and varying sizes of temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. The fermentation room is a winemaker’s dream with ample room between the rows of small custom-designed, open-top stainless steel tanks, raised tank pads and pneumatic punch-down devices. The barrel rooms allow for precise temperature and humidity control to provide a perfect environment for fermentations and barrel aging. The winery is complete with a panoramic view of the Russian River Valley from huge picture windows in the spacious warmth of the tasting room.

Through hard work and an uncompromising commitment, we have cultivated meaningful, trusting relationships with our customers, growers and vendors. It is these cherished relationships, built on integrity, honesty and trust, which provide the basis for the continued success of these handcrafted wines.